Preparing for the Unexpected
As a parent, the idea of taking my kids camping in the Scottish Highlands was both exciting and a little daunting. I knew the natural beauty of the region would captivate them, but I also worried about the potential for boredom – and we all know how that can quickly escalate into a camping nightmare. Having been instructors and teachers on numerous wilderness trips, my husband and I considered ourselves seasoned campers. But adding two young kids to the mix? That was a whole new level of adventure.
When we planned our first family camping trip to the Loch Ness Shores campsite, I knew I had to come up with a plan to keep the little ones entertained. After all, we were going to be far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, surrounded by the tranquil Scottish Highlands. While the scenery would undoubtedly wow them, I couldn’t rely on that alone to stave off the dreaded “I’m bored!” cries.
Camping Boredom Busters
Taking a cue from my own childhood memories, I decided to create a campsite activity cabinet – a one-stop-shop for games, crafts, and outdoor adventures. Just like the game cabinet I’d loved in our old RV, this portable treasure trove would be our secret weapon against campsite boredom.
I started by scavenging through the house, unearthing forgotten toys, art supplies, and board games. Old scrapbooking materials, coloring books, and even a knot-tying kit became the building blocks of our activity cabinet. And let’s not forget the classic entertainment staples – Jenga, checkers, and good old-fashioned pick-up sticks.
But it wasn’t just about keeping the kids occupied; I also wanted to sneak in some educational fun. Constellation maps, compasses, and Home Depot building kits allowed us to turn camping into a hands-on learning experience. And of course, no activity cabinet would be complete without the essentials for our favorite outdoor adventure – Geocaching!
Embracing the Great Outdoors
As we loaded up the car and headed to the Loch Ness Shores campsite, I felt a sense of cautious optimism. Sure, the kids might get bored at times, but I was armed with a treasure trove of games and activities to keep them engaged.
And you know what? It worked like a charm! From paper airplane races and leaf imprinting to board game challenges and campfire stories, our activity cabinet became the centerpiece of our camping trip. The kids were so absorbed in their creations and adventures that they barely had time to utter the dreaded “B” word.
Even during the quieter moments, like canoeing across the serene waters of Loch Ness, the kids found ways to entertain themselves. They played ninjas in the forest, taught each other new fighting techniques, and even had “birthday parties” and “slumber parties” in their tent.
The Gift of Boredom
As seasoned campers, my husband and I know that a little boredom can actually be a good thing. “This is what canoe camping is all about, right here, a loon right beside our campsite and hot chocolate,” our son said one morning, and it filled our hearts with joy. In a world constantly buzzing with screens and stimulation, the gift of boredom allows kids (and adults!) to reconnect with nature, tap into their creativity, and truly appreciate the simple pleasures of camping.
So, if you’re planning a family camping trip to the stunning Scottish Highlands, don’t fret about keeping the little ones entertained. Embrace the great outdoors, let their imaginations run wild, and remember that a little boredom can be the key to unforgettable memories. And who knows, you might just find yourself joining in on the fun!
